Hreod Burna Urban Forest formed out of local resistance groups coming together to oppose a housing development on the land.

In 2008, HabOakus development company began public consultations on a proposed 150-house development on Pickards Small Field and Kembrey Grass where the forest now sits.

Although this was met with opposition from local residents who didn’t want to lose the fields, 2010 saw HabOakus put forward a larger proposal of 240 homes.

“We had a big campaign against the development,” said Steve Thompson, chairman of HBUF.

Residents suggested instead the area be turned into an urban forest which the whole community could enjoy.

By 2012 HabOakus withdrew its proposals and in 2013 the Hreod Burna Parkway Preservation group was formed, starting work on the urban forest which had been negotiated with the council.

Through working parties, hundreds of young saplings and fruit trees were planted, donated by the Forestry Commission as part of its Big Tree Plant.

The Hreod Burna brook running through the area was cleared of rubbish.

The paths across the area were made more accessible and covered with plantings, and a new bridge was built over the brook between Ballman Field and Kembrey Copse.

In autumn 2013, the Charity Commission awarded charitable status to the group, newly named the Hreod Burna Urban Forest.